A research colloquium entitled "Alternative programs for teaching French as a second language in the schools of the Carleton and Ottawa School Boards" was held by the Ontario Ministry of Education in April 1976. The purpose, background, and program of the colloquium are described. (RM)

Experimental language programs in Ottawa and Carleton schools investigating alternatives for teaching French as a second language were the subject of a research colloquium in April 1976. Comments on the programs are given by a panel of school board officials and coordinators of second language departments. (RM)

Findings and conclusions of three studies are reported: (1) comparison of two variations of a French core program, (2) an enrichment program attempting to change attitudes, and (3) a comparison between an immersion program and an intensive program. Three guest analysts comment and criticize. (Author/RM)

An overview and synthesis is given of a number of studies concerned with different aspects of a major research project related to French programs in Carleton and Ottawa schools. Comments and criticisms are made by three guest analysts. (RM)

The document is designed for the use by teachers of French immersion Kindergarten programs in Alberta. It aims at outlining the vision, elements, and goals of the program, explaining the role of a French immersion Kindergarten, and providing practical tools for the implementation of the program. Part 1 (Portraits) focuses on how to…

This teacher's guide, intended for the instruction of both French as a first language and French as a second language in an immersion setting, provides a host of strategies for teaching interactive oral presentation skills in the classroom (Grades 6 through 12). Section 1 is designed to bring the teacher's awareness to the training procedure,…

Examines the French Immersion program in Northern Ontario, Canada, against the correspondence theory of Bowles and Gintis. Suggests that schools both reproduce class stratified society and promote social inequality. Explores the English-speaking middle-class motivations and actions in controlling French Immersion programs to benefit their…

Describes immersion weekends sponsored by the University of Calgary. The discussion includes examples from actual weekends to describe the planning and implementation. A qualitative evaluation is also discussed. (Author/AMH)

Responding to O. Weininger's concern about Early French Immersion (EFI) programs, the author declares that evaluations from all over Canada have shown that EFI students achieve high levels of French proficiency at no apparent academic cost. Other objections to Weininger's conclusions are also raised. (PP)

The six-week immersion Summer Language Bursary Program is designed for post-secondary students wishing to study English or French as a second language. A two-year evaluation of students immediately after and eight months after indicated students had improved oral-aural language skills and increased knowledge of the second culture. (Author/BRR)

Describes weaknesses in the sociolinguistic competence of second-language (L2) learners as documented by research in immersion contexts. The article discusses findings with reference to adolescent native speakers' use of question forms, conditionals, and second-person pronouns across two levels of formality in written and oral productions. (48…

Considers various factors relating to the failure of recent Canadian graduates of French immersion programs to make substantial use of French immediately following their schooling. The article presents some case studies of adult Canadians engaged in maintaining or improving their French skills. (29 references) (Author/CK)

Thirteen Kaska Elders took a leading role in a University of British Columbia Kaska language course held in three locations in Kaska territory in the Yukon. The elders conducted a variety of cultural activities, and entire families participated, creating an environment in which the language was constantly spoken and relevant to the activities.…

Analysis of Ontario standardized-test scores indicates that French-immersion students, who had lagged behind regular English-program students in grade 3, had comparable or higher achievement scores in reading, writing, and mathematics by grade 6. Little support was found for possible explanations involving selective attrition of weaker students…

An Ontario language teachers' association survey of school boards concerning projected staffing needs, status of current core and immersion French programs, planned expansion and development, and areas of particular need for qualified French second-language teachers is summarized. Data and issues raised by respondents are presented. (Author/MSE)